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Coronavirus: global death toll passes 3,000 with more than 88,000 infected – live updates Coronavirus: four new cases detected in England, taking UK total to 40 – live updates
(32 minutes later)
South Korea reports almost 500 new cases and a second person dies in the US as UK ministers hold emergency meetingSouth Korea reports almost 500 new cases and a second person dies in the US as UK ministers hold emergency meeting
Four more patients have tested positive for coronavirus in England, bringing the total number of cases in the UK to 40, PA Media quotes the chief medical officer, Prof Chris Whitty, as saying.
A 29-year-old Russian man diagnosed with coronavirus has became the country’s first citizen to be found ill with the disease while inside of the country, Andrew Roth reports from Moscow.
David Berov, who had returned from a ski trip to northern Italy on 23 February and checked into a hospital several days later, had tested positive for the disease, Russian authorities said on Monday. Two tests had returned negative results before a third test showed Berov was indeed infected with the coronavirus.
In a series of videos reposted by Russian media, Berov filmed scenes from his quarantine, where he was being held in a single room with other suspected coronavirus patients.
“When we got there we asked the medical staff why we are all lying together in the same room – any one of us could infect the others,” Berov told the Moscow Times, an English-language newspaper, by phone from the hospital. Doctors at Moscow’s Infectious Diseases hospital No 1 had later told him not to tell Russian health officials that he had been held in a single room with other suspected coronavirus patients, the paper said. So far, two Chinese citizens have been diagnosed with the disease in Russia and since released from hospital. Three Russians onboard the Diamond Princess, the cruise ship hit by the coronavirus while it was docked in Yokohama, Japan, have also tested positive for coronavirus.
Russia has stepped up measures against coronavirus in recent days, banning entry to Chinese citizens and to most Iranian travellers, and also deploying dozens of medical staff clad in white protective suits to meet planes arriving from Italy. More than 200 suspected coronavirus patients have been admitted to hospital in Moscow alone, Russian authorities have said.
The European Central Bank called off on Monday a joint event with the European Commission that was to take place on the following day, citing cancellations by participants as the region is hit by the coronavirus outbreak.
The ECB said in a statement:
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has published an up to date list of cases of infection and fatality within the European economic area, the UK, San Marino, Monaco and Switzerland, Daniel Boffey reports.There have been 2,199 cases and 38 deaths reported: Italy (1,689), France (130), Germany (129), Spain (83), UK (36), Switzerland (24), Norway (19), Sweden (14), Austria (14), Netherlands (13), San Marino (8), Greece (7), Croatia (7), Finland (6), Denmark (4), the Czech Republic (3), Iceland (3), Romania (3), Belgium (2), Estonia (1), Ireland (1), Lithuania (1), Luxembourg (1) and Monaco (1).The EU organisation said that of the fatalities 35 deaths were in Italy; two deaths have been reported in France, and one death has been reported from San Marino.
The Bank of England has promised to do whatever it can to shore up the economy against the impact of coronavirus after mounting anxiety about the disease sent stock markets into freefall, Rob Davies reports.The Bank of England has promised to do whatever it can to shore up the economy against the impact of coronavirus after mounting anxiety about the disease sent stock markets into freefall, Rob Davies reports.
The value of FTSE 100 companies slumped by £200bn last week, in tandem with a broader global sell-off in which global stock markets suffered their steepest falls since the 2008 financial crisis.The value of FTSE 100 companies slumped by £200bn last week, in tandem with a broader global sell-off in which global stock markets suffered their steepest falls since the 2008 financial crisis.
However, Asian markets rallied overnight as investors gambled that central banks will respond by cutting interest rates to stimulate growth, offsetting the coronavirus effect.However, Asian markets rallied overnight as investors gambled that central banks will respond by cutting interest rates to stimulate growth, offsetting the coronavirus effect.
The UK’s central bank joined the Bank of Japan in telling investors that it is keeping tabs on the situation and stands ready to use its monetary policy levers to promote financial stability.The UK’s central bank joined the Bank of Japan in telling investors that it is keeping tabs on the situation and stands ready to use its monetary policy levers to promote financial stability.
“The Bank is working closely with HM Treasury and the FCA [Financial Conduct Authority] – as well as our international partners – to ensure all necessary steps are taken to protect financial and monetary stability,” a spokesman said.“The Bank is working closely with HM Treasury and the FCA [Financial Conduct Authority] – as well as our international partners – to ensure all necessary steps are taken to protect financial and monetary stability,” a spokesman said.
Health officials in Washington state said late on Sunday a nursing home resident had died after contracting coronavirus, while New York’s governor confirmed his state’s first positive case, Reuters reports.Health officials in Washington state said late on Sunday a nursing home resident had died after contracting coronavirus, while New York’s governor confirmed his state’s first positive case, Reuters reports.
Late on Sunday, Florida declared a public health emergency as it confirmed its first two cases. Cases in Chicago and Rhode Island were also reported.Late on Sunday, Florida declared a public health emergency as it confirmed its first two cases. Cases in Chicago and Rhode Island were also reported.
The coronavirus, which emerged in China late last year, has sent global markets falling as it quickly moves around the world. It appeared poised for a spike in the US, in part because of more testing to confirm cases.The coronavirus, which emerged in China late last year, has sent global markets falling as it quickly moves around the world. It appeared poised for a spike in the US, in part because of more testing to confirm cases.
Trump administration officials worked on Sunday to soothe nerves and calm fears that a global recession is looming, arguing that the public and media were over-reacting and saying stocks would bounce back because the US economy was fundamentally strong.Trump administration officials worked on Sunday to soothe nerves and calm fears that a global recession is looming, arguing that the public and media were over-reacting and saying stocks would bounce back because the US economy was fundamentally strong.
The total number of confirmed cases in the US is more than 75 with two reported deaths, both in Washington state. Globally there have been more than 87,000 cases and nearly 3,000 deaths in 60 countries, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).The total number of confirmed cases in the US is more than 75 with two reported deaths, both in Washington state. Globally there have been more than 87,000 cases and nearly 3,000 deaths in 60 countries, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
British guests at a quarantined hotel in Tenerife are being flown back to the UK after testing negative for coronavirus, Jet2holidays has said. PA News Agency has the story: British guests at a quarantined hotel in Tenerife are being flown back to the UK after testing negative for coronavirus, Jet2holidays has said. PA Media has the story:
Nicky Bandini, the Guardian’s Italian football correspondent, has written about the knock-on effects in Serie A after five matches were postponed over the weekend.Nicky Bandini, the Guardian’s Italian football correspondent, has written about the knock-on effects in Serie A after five matches were postponed over the weekend.
The spread of coronavirus in the UK is likely to worsen, the prime minister, Boris Johnson, has warned.The spread of coronavirus in the UK is likely to worsen, the prime minister, Boris Johnson, has warned.
Speaking after an emergency Cobra meeting where ministers gathered to discuss a “battle plan” to be published on Tuesday, Johnson reiterated advice from health authorities for people to wash their hands thoroughly.Speaking after an emergency Cobra meeting where ministers gathered to discuss a “battle plan” to be published on Tuesday, Johnson reiterated advice from health authorities for people to wash their hands thoroughly.
Johnson said closing schools and banning mass gatherings would only be taken upon scientific advice, adding:Johnson said closing schools and banning mass gatherings would only be taken upon scientific advice, adding:
[Cross-posted from the politics live blog][Cross-posted from the politics live blog]
The prime minister’s spokesman is here.The prime minister’s spokesman is here.
He starts by setting out the PM’s day. He has just chaired a Cobra meeting on coronavirus, and done a clip for broadcasters. Later he will be hosting a World Cup day reception in No 10.He starts by setting out the PM’s day. He has just chaired a Cobra meeting on coronavirus, and done a clip for broadcasters. Later he will be hosting a World Cup day reception in No 10.
Liz Truss has published negotiating objectives for the UK-US trade talks, he says. There will be a statement in the Commons this afternoon.Liz Truss has published negotiating objectives for the UK-US trade talks, he says. There will be a statement in the Commons this afternoon.
In Brussels the first round of negotiations with the EU starts at 1pm UK time. It will start with a meeting between David Frost, the PM’s Europe adviser, and Michel Barnier, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, which is due to last an hour.In Brussels the first round of negotiations with the EU starts at 1pm UK time. It will start with a meeting between David Frost, the PM’s Europe adviser, and Michel Barnier, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, which is due to last an hour.
Dominic Raab, the foreign secretary, is holding talks in Oman.Dominic Raab, the foreign secretary, is holding talks in Oman.
Grant Shapps, the transport secretary, has confirmed that the government has taken over rail services on the Northern network.Grant Shapps, the transport secretary, has confirmed that the government has taken over rail services on the Northern network.
The spokesman is now taking questions.The spokesman is now taking questions.
Q: What happened at the Cobra meeting?Q: What happened at the Cobra meeting?
The spokesman says the PM has set that out in his clip for broadcasters. A UK-wide action plan for coronavirus was agreed. It will be published tomorrow, the spokesman says.The spokesman says the PM has set that out in his clip for broadcasters. A UK-wide action plan for coronavirus was agreed. It will be published tomorrow, the spokesman says.
He says the devolved administrations were represented via conference call.He says the devolved administrations were represented via conference call.
Q: Why was Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, not there.Q: Why was Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, not there.
Today was about setting out a national response, the spokesman says.Today was about setting out a national response, the spokesman says.
The spokesman says the plan will be published. Reporters will be properly briefed on it, he says.The spokesman says the plan will be published. Reporters will be properly briefed on it, he says.
Q: What sort of input did the devolved administrations have? Are there differences in the different parts of the UK?Q: What sort of input did the devolved administrations have? Are there differences in the different parts of the UK?
It is as single plan for the UK, the spokesman says.It is as single plan for the UK, the spokesman says.
Q: Will the plan explain how emergency services will be sustained?Q: Will the plan explain how emergency services will be sustained?
The spokesman says it will be published tomorrow.The spokesman says it will be published tomorrow.
Q: What worst case scenarios were discussed?Q: What worst case scenarios were discussed?
The spokesman says he does not want to do that before the report is published.The spokesman says he does not want to do that before the report is published.
He says the public will need access to the best and clearest information.He says the public will need access to the best and clearest information.
Q: Do you know if Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has contracted coronavirus in prison in Iran?Q: Do you know if Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has contracted coronavirus in prison in Iran?
The spokesman says the government is urgently seeking an update about her condition.The spokesman says the government is urgently seeking an update about her condition.
Regarding the government’s plans for emergency legislation, the spokesman says the government wants to ensure it has the powers it needs when it needs them.Regarding the government’s plans for emergency legislation, the spokesman says the government wants to ensure it has the powers it needs when it needs them.
The spokesman says we may get a Commons statement from the health secretary on the plan tomorrow.The spokesman says we may get a Commons statement from the health secretary on the plan tomorrow.
Q: Can you tell us more about the “war room” on coronavirus?Q: Can you tell us more about the “war room” on coronavirus?
The spokesman says there is a room in the Cabinet Office where health and communication officials from across the UK will be based. It will ensure that “joined-up messages” go out to the public.The spokesman says there is a room in the Cabinet Office where health and communication officials from across the UK will be based. It will ensure that “joined-up messages” go out to the public.
Q: How many people will be working in the “war room”?Q: How many people will be working in the “war room”?
The spokesman does not have those figures.The spokesman does not have those figures.
Q: Will the military need to get involved?Q: Will the military need to get involved?
The spokesman says the government will take whatever steps are deemed helpful.The spokesman says the government will take whatever steps are deemed helpful.
Wall Street’s most famous face is worried. Peter Tuchman, the trader whose Einstein-esque features are the most photographed on the floor of the New York stock exchange (NYSE), has not witnessed a sell-off as bad as this since the 2008 financial crisis. And he thinks it is going to get worse.Wall Street’s most famous face is worried. Peter Tuchman, the trader whose Einstein-esque features are the most photographed on the floor of the New York stock exchange (NYSE), has not witnessed a sell-off as bad as this since the 2008 financial crisis. And he thinks it is going to get worse.
“There’s a lot of fear here. A lot of confusion,” Tuchman said at the end of a week when investor panic over the likely impact of the coronavirus had triggered the worst sell-off in US stock markets for a dozen years.“There’s a lot of fear here. A lot of confusion,” Tuchman said at the end of a week when investor panic over the likely impact of the coronavirus had triggered the worst sell-off in US stock markets for a dozen years.
Tuchman has been working at the world’s most famous stock market for 35 years and his picture crops up in media worldwide whenever things go right or wrong. He first rose to prominence in 2008 when a picture of his fretful face came to symbolise panic on the stock markets. There he was just a few short weeks ago, positively beaming when the key Dow Jones stock market index crossed 29,000 for the first time. Tuchman was everywhere again last week as US markets crashed.Tuchman has been working at the world’s most famous stock market for 35 years and his picture crops up in media worldwide whenever things go right or wrong. He first rose to prominence in 2008 when a picture of his fretful face came to symbolise panic on the stock markets. There he was just a few short weeks ago, positively beaming when the key Dow Jones stock market index crossed 29,000 for the first time. Tuchman was everywhere again last week as US markets crashed.
In the US, health officials in Washington state say that a second person had died from the coronavirus, the Associated Press reports. The victim was a man in his 70s from a nursing facility near Seattle where dozens of people were sick and had been tested for the virus. According to AP:In the US, health officials in Washington state say that a second person had died from the coronavirus, the Associated Press reports. The victim was a man in his 70s from a nursing facility near Seattle where dozens of people were sick and had been tested for the virus. According to AP:
Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, is unhappy after he was excluded from the UK government’s Cobra meeting to discuss the coronavirus outbreak, PA Media reports.Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, is unhappy after he was excluded from the UK government’s Cobra meeting to discuss the coronavirus outbreak, PA Media reports.
For the benefit of our international readers, the UK government is led by the Conservative party, while Khan is a member of the opposition Labour party.For the benefit of our international readers, the UK government is led by the Conservative party, while Khan is a member of the opposition Labour party.
Airlines have been suspending flights or modifying service in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Reuters has compiled details of the modifications to services (in alphabetical order):Airlines have been suspending flights or modifying service in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Reuters has compiled details of the modifications to services (in alphabetical order):
Airlines that have cancelled all flights to mainland ChinaAirlines that have cancelled all flights to mainland China
American Airlines – extends suspension of China and Hong Kong flights until 24 April.American Airlines – extends suspension of China and Hong Kong flights until 24 April.
Air France – said on 6 February it would suspend flights to and from mainland China for much of March.Air France – said on 6 February it would suspend flights to and from mainland China for much of March.
Air India – suspends flights to Shanghai, Hong Kong until 30 June.Air India – suspends flights to Shanghai, Hong Kong until 30 June.
Air Seoul – South Korean budget carrier suspended China flights from 28 January until further notice.Air Seoul – South Korean budget carrier suspended China flights from 28 January until further notice.
Air Tanzania – Tanzania’s state-owned carrier, which had planned to begin charter flights to China in February, postponed its maiden flights.Air Tanzania – Tanzania’s state-owned carrier, which had planned to begin charter flights to China in February, postponed its maiden flights.
Air Mauritius – Suspended all flights to China and Hong KongAir Mauritius – Suspended all flights to China and Hong Kong
Austrian Airlines – until end of February.Austrian Airlines – until end of February.
British Airways – 29 January-31 March.British Airways – 29 January-31 March.
Delta Airlines – 2 February-30 April.Delta Airlines – 2 February-30 April.
Egyptair suspended flights on 1 February, but on 20 February said it would resume some flights to and from China starting next week.Egyptair suspended flights on 1 February, but on 20 February said it would resume some flights to and from China starting next week.
El Al Israel Airlines – extended its suspension of flights to Hong Kong and Beijing until 2 May.El Al Israel Airlines – extended its suspension of flights to Hong Kong and Beijing until 2 May.
Iberia Airlines – Spanish carrier extended its suspension of flights from Madrid to Shanghai, its only route, from 29 February until the end of April.Iberia Airlines – Spanish carrier extended its suspension of flights from Madrid to Shanghai, its only route, from 29 February until the end of April.
JejuAir Co Ltd – Korean airline to suspend all China routes starting 1 March.JejuAir Co Ltd – Korean airline to suspend all China routes starting 1 March.
Kenya Airways – 31 January until further notice.Kenya Airways – 31 January until further notice.
KLM – said on 2 March it would extend its ban on flights to Chengdu, Hangzhou and Xiamen in China to at least 3 May. The airline expects to resume flights to Beijing and Shanghai on 29 March.KLM – said on 2 March it would extend its ban on flights to Chengdu, Hangzhou and Xiamen in China to at least 3 May. The airline expects to resume flights to Beijing and Shanghai on 29 March.
Lion Air – all of February.Lion Air – all of February.
LOT – extends flight suspension until 28 March.LOT – extends flight suspension until 28 March.
Lufthansa – extends China flight cancellations until 24 April.Lufthansa – extends China flight cancellations until 24 April.
Oman and Saudia, Saudi Arabia’s state airline, both suspended flights on 2 February until further notice.Oman and Saudia, Saudi Arabia’s state airline, both suspended flights on 2 February until further notice.
Qatar Airways – 1 February until further notice.Qatar Airways – 1 February until further notice.
Rwandair – 31 January until further notice.Rwandair – 31 January until further notice.
Scoot, Singapore Airlines’ low-cost carrier – 8 February until further notice.Scoot, Singapore Airlines’ low-cost carrier – 8 February until further notice.
United Airlines – 5 February-23 April. Service to Hong Kong suspended 8 February-23 April.United Airlines – 5 February-23 April. Service to Hong Kong suspended 8 February-23 April.
Vietjet and Vietnam Airlines - suspended flights to mainland China as well as Hong Kong and Macau from 1 February-30 April, in line with its aviation authority’s directive.Vietjet and Vietnam Airlines - suspended flights to mainland China as well as Hong Kong and Macau from 1 February-30 April, in line with its aviation authority’s directive.
Airlines that have cancelled some China flights or modified serviceAirlines that have cancelled some China flights or modified service
Air Canada – extended the suspension of its flights to Beijing and Shanghai until 27 March. It also suspended its Toronto to Hong Kong flights from 1 March to 27 March, but its Vancouver to Hong Kong route remains active.Air Canada – extended the suspension of its flights to Beijing and Shanghai until 27 March. It also suspended its Toronto to Hong Kong flights from 1 March to 27 March, but its Vancouver to Hong Kong route remains active.
Air China – said it would cancel flights to Athens, Greece, from 17 February to 18 March and “adjust” flights between China and the US. On 28 February it resumed flying to Frankfurt from Chengdu, following a 21-day suspension, state-run Xinhua news agency said.Air China – said it would cancel flights to Athens, Greece, from 17 February to 18 March and “adjust” flights between China and the US. On 28 February it resumed flying to Frankfurt from Chengdu, following a 21-day suspension, state-run Xinhua news agency said.
Air New Zealand – suspended Auckland-Shanghai service 9 February-29 March. Reduced capacity on Shanghai route throughout April and Hong Kong route throughout April and May.Air New Zealand – suspended Auckland-Shanghai service 9 February-29 March. Reduced capacity on Shanghai route throughout April and Hong Kong route throughout April and May.
ANA Holdings – suspended routes including Shanghai and Hong Kong from 10 February until further notice.ANA Holdings – suspended routes including Shanghai and Hong Kong from 10 February until further notice.
Brussels Airlines - Lufthansa subsidiary said on 28 February it would cut flights to northern Italy by 30% from 2-14 March.Brussels Airlines - Lufthansa subsidiary said on 28 February it would cut flights to northern Italy by 30% from 2-14 March.
Cathay Pacific Airways – plans to cut a third of its capacity over the next two months, including 90% of flights to mainland China. It has encouraged its 27,000 employees to take three weeks of unpaid leave in a bid to preserve cash.Cathay Pacific Airways – plans to cut a third of its capacity over the next two months, including 90% of flights to mainland China. It has encouraged its 27,000 employees to take three weeks of unpaid leave in a bid to preserve cash.
China Southern Airlines recommenced flights on 25 February to Nairobi from Guangzhou.China Southern Airlines recommenced flights on 25 February to Nairobi from Guangzhou.
Emirates and Etihad – the United Arab Emirates, a major international transit hub, suspended flights to and from China, except for Beijing.Emirates and Etihad – the United Arab Emirates, a major international transit hub, suspended flights to and from China, except for Beijing.
Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways has suspended flights to Hong Kong until 28 March, the airline said on 26 February, citing a drop in demand.Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways has suspended flights to Hong Kong until 28 March, the airline said on 26 February, citing a drop in demand.
The UAE suspended all flights to mainland China, except Beijing, on 5 February.The UAE suspended all flights to mainland China, except Beijing, on 5 February.
Finnair – cancelled all flights to mainland China and decreased the number of flights to Hong Kong until 28 March.Finnair – cancelled all flights to mainland China and decreased the number of flights to Hong Kong until 28 March.
Hainan Airlines – suspended flights between Budapest, Hungary, and Chongqing rom 7 February-27 March.Hainan Airlines – suspended flights between Budapest, Hungary, and Chongqing rom 7 February-27 March.
Kenya’s high court ordered flights from China to be temporarily suspended, following a petition.Kenya’s high court ordered flights from China to be temporarily suspended, following a petition.
Korean Air Lines Co. - The national flag carrier suspended eight routes to China and reduced services on nine Chinese routes between 7 Feb and 22 Feb.Korean Air Lines Co. - The national flag carrier suspended eight routes to China and reduced services on nine Chinese routes between 7 Feb and 22 Feb.
Philippine Airlines – cut the number of flights between Manila and China by more than half.Philippine Airlines – cut the number of flights between Manila and China by more than half.
Qantas Airways – suspended direct flights to China from 1 February. The Australian national carrier halted flights from Sydney to Beijing and Sydney to Shanghai from 9 February-29 March.Qantas Airways – suspended direct flights to China from 1 February. The Australian national carrier halted flights from Sydney to Beijing and Sydney to Shanghai from 9 February-29 March.
Royal Air Maroc - Moroccan airline suspended direct flights to China from 31 January-29 February. On 16 January, it had launched a direct air route with three flights weekly between its Casablanca hub and Beijing.Royal Air Maroc - Moroccan airline suspended direct flights to China from 31 January-29 February. On 16 January, it had launched a direct air route with three flights weekly between its Casablanca hub and Beijing.
Russia – all Russian airlines, with the exception of national airline Aeroflot, stopped flying to China from 31 January. Small airline Ikar will also continue flights between Moscow and China. All planes arriving from China will be sent to a separate terminal in the Moscow Sheremetyevo airport. Aeroflot reduced the frequency of flights to Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou until 29 February.Russia – all Russian airlines, with the exception of national airline Aeroflot, stopped flying to China from 31 January. Small airline Ikar will also continue flights between Moscow and China. All planes arriving from China will be sent to a separate terminal in the Moscow Sheremetyevo airport. Aeroflot reduced the frequency of flights to Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou until 29 February.
Vistara Airlines makes temporary reduction in flights to and from Bangkok and Singapore.Vistara Airlines makes temporary reduction in flights to and from Bangkok and Singapore.
Nordic airline SAS extended its suspension of flights to Shanghai and Beijing until 29 March.Nordic airline SAS extended its suspension of flights to Shanghai and Beijing until 29 March.
Singapore Airlines – suspended or cut capacity on flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Xiamen and Chongqing, some of which are flown by regional arm SilkAir.Singapore Airlines – suspended or cut capacity on flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Xiamen and Chongqing, some of which are flown by regional arm SilkAir.
UPS – cancelled 22 flights to China because of the virus and normal manufacturing closures due to the lunar new year holiday.UPS – cancelled 22 flights to China because of the virus and normal manufacturing closures due to the lunar new year holiday.
Virgin Atlantic – extended its suspension of daily operations to Shanghai until 28 March.Virgin Atlantic – extended its suspension of daily operations to Shanghai until 28 March.
Virgin Australia – said it will withdraw from the Sydney-Hong Kong route from 2 March because it was “no longer a viable commercial route” due to growing concerns over the virus and civil unrest in Hong Kong.Virgin Australia – said it will withdraw from the Sydney-Hong Kong route from 2 March because it was “no longer a viable commercial route” due to growing concerns over the virus and civil unrest in Hong Kong.
Airlines that have modified service on other routesAirlines that have modified service on other routes
Asiana Airlines has decided to halt all flights to Daegu until 9 March, while Korean Air Lines will also suspend flights until 28 March.Asiana Airlines has decided to halt all flights to Daegu until 9 March, while Korean Air Lines will also suspend flights until 28 March.
Air Canada to allow travellers to rebook flights to parts of Italy at no charge. United Airlines adds South Korea to travel waiver list but is not cancelling flights.Air Canada to allow travellers to rebook flights to parts of Italy at no charge. United Airlines adds South Korea to travel waiver list but is not cancelling flights.
Bahrain civil aviation authority suspends all its flights from Dubai and Sharjah airports for 48 hours.Bahrain civil aviation authority suspends all its flights from Dubai and Sharjah airports for 48 hours.
British Airways said it would cancel some flights to and from Italy, Singapore and South Korea, as a result of reduced demand.British Airways said it would cancel some flights to and from Italy, Singapore and South Korea, as a result of reduced demand.
easyJet said on 28 February it would cancel flights, particularly in and out of Italy and cut costs across its business.easyJet said on 28 February it would cancel flights, particularly in and out of Italy and cut costs across its business.
El Al Israel Airlines said it would suspend flights to Italy, including Milan and Rome from 28 February to 14 March, and to Bangkok from 2-27 March. It will also delay launching a new route to Tokyo from March until 4 April.El Al Israel Airlines said it would suspend flights to Italy, including Milan and Rome from 28 February to 14 March, and to Bangkok from 2-27 March. It will also delay launching a new route to Tokyo from March until 4 April.
Kazakhstan plans to suspend flights to Iran from 1 March and reduce the number of South Korea flightsKazakhstan plans to suspend flights to Iran from 1 March and reduce the number of South Korea flights
Kuwait’s civil aviation authority halts all its flights to and from South Korea, Thailand, and Italy. Kuwait had earlier suspended all its flights to and from Iraq.Kuwait’s civil aviation authority halts all its flights to and from South Korea, Thailand, and Italy. Kuwait had earlier suspended all its flights to and from Iraq.
Lebanon halted flights for non-residents from countries including China, Iran, Italy and South Korea, the transport ministry said on 28 February. The ban excludes Lebanese citizens and foreign residents of the country.Lebanon halted flights for non-residents from countries including China, Iran, Italy and South Korea, the transport ministry said on 28 February. The ban excludes Lebanese citizens and foreign residents of the country.
Lufthansa to cut number of short- and medium-haul flights in response to the accelerated spread of the coronavirus, adding it will suspend flights to Tehran until 30 April.Lufthansa to cut number of short- and medium-haul flights in response to the accelerated spread of the coronavirus, adding it will suspend flights to Tehran until 30 April.
Mongolia’s national emergency commission said on 24 February it had halted all flights from South Korea and would block entry through its borders until 2 March. Mongolia had previously suspended all entries from China.Mongolia’s national emergency commission said on 24 February it had halted all flights from South Korea and would block entry through its borders until 2 March. Mongolia had previously suspended all entries from China.
Oman’s civil aviation authority halted all flights between the sultanate and Iran.Oman’s civil aviation authority halted all flights between the sultanate and Iran.
Royal Jordanian Airlines has suspended flights between Amman and Rome until further notice starting from 26 February.Royal Jordanian Airlines has suspended flights between Amman and Rome until further notice starting from 26 February.
Russia’s ministry of transport said on 27 February it would suspend some flights to and from Iran, except those operated by its national carrier Aeroflot and Iranian airline Mahan Air.Russia’s ministry of transport said on 27 February it would suspend some flights to and from Iran, except those operated by its national carrier Aeroflot and Iranian airline Mahan Air.
Tajikistan has suspended all flights to and from Iran until the virus situation there stabilises, the Civil Aviation Agency said on 24 February.Tajikistan has suspended all flights to and from Iran until the virus situation there stabilises, the Civil Aviation Agency said on 24 February.
Tunisia may suspend some flights to Italy.Tunisia may suspend some flights to Italy.
Turkish Airlines extended a cancellation of flights to Iranian cities, with the exception to flights to Tehran, until 10 March.Turkish Airlines extended a cancellation of flights to Iranian cities, with the exception to flights to Tehran, until 10 March.
Turkish commercial flights between Turkey and Iran are suspended until further notice. “The Iranian carriers will fly empty to Turkey and be permitted to carry passengers destined for Iran. Turkish passengers will not be transported on these flights,” Turkey’s civil aviation authority announced on its Twitter account.Turkish commercial flights between Turkey and Iran are suspended until further notice. “The Iranian carriers will fly empty to Turkey and be permitted to carry passengers destined for Iran. Turkish passengers will not be transported on these flights,” Turkey’s civil aviation authority announced on its Twitter account.
United Airlines – sharply cutting number of flights to Japan and South Korea as travellers have slashed ticket purchases for those destinations.United Airlines – sharply cutting number of flights to Japan and South Korea as travellers have slashed ticket purchases for those destinations.
Vietnam’s Bamboo Airways suspends flights between Da Nang and Nha Trang to Seoul’s Incheon International Airport, starting on 26 February.Vietnam’s Bamboo Airways suspends flights between Da Nang and Nha Trang to Seoul’s Incheon International Airport, starting on 26 February.
Wizz Air said it would decrease the frequency of its Romania, Poland, Italy and Israel routes, cutting two-thirds of all flights on affected routes over three weeks between 11 March and 2 April.Wizz Air said it would decrease the frequency of its Romania, Poland, Italy and Israel routes, cutting two-thirds of all flights on affected routes over three weeks between 11 March and 2 April.
The number of confirmed cases in France jumped from 100 to 130 in 24 hours to Sunday evening, reports Kim Willsher, the Guardian’s correspondent in Paris.The number of confirmed cases in France jumped from 100 to 130 in 24 hours to Sunday evening, reports Kim Willsher, the Guardian’s correspondent in Paris.
The director general of France’s health service, Jérôme Salomon, gave the latest figures on Sunday evening. Of the 130 people who have contracted the virus, two have died, 116 are in hospital – nine of them in a serious condition – and 12 have recovered after treatment and have returned home.The director general of France’s health service, Jérôme Salomon, gave the latest figures on Sunday evening. Of the 130 people who have contracted the virus, two have died, 116 are in hospital – nine of them in a serious condition – and 12 have recovered after treatment and have returned home.
France has declared it is in “Stage 2” of an epidemic. Stage 1 is attempting to avoid the virus entering the country. Stage 2 is attempting to avoid it spreading. The health authorities would only move to Stage 3 when it was considered impossible to mitigate the spread of the virus and necessary to introduce compulsory collective measures, such as the closure of schools and other public buildings.France has declared it is in “Stage 2” of an epidemic. Stage 1 is attempting to avoid the virus entering the country. Stage 2 is attempting to avoid it spreading. The health authorities would only move to Stage 3 when it was considered impossible to mitigate the spread of the virus and necessary to introduce compulsory collective measures, such as the closure of schools and other public buildings.
Salomon said this would be an “observational and not a political decision”. “This epidemic, as we’ve already seen with the flu or bronchiolitis, is not necessarily homogeneous. That’s why we’ll have a very adapted, pragmatic and reactive attitude depending on the territories,” Salomon said.Salomon said this would be an “observational and not a political decision”. “This epidemic, as we’ve already seen with the flu or bronchiolitis, is not necessarily homogeneous. That’s why we’ll have a very adapted, pragmatic and reactive attitude depending on the territories,” Salomon said.
The new cases include two children aged one year and five years from Alsace in eastern France, who have been hospitalised in Strasbourg along with their 27-year-old mother who also tested positive. Their condition was described as not worrying.The new cases include two children aged one year and five years from Alsace in eastern France, who have been hospitalised in Strasbourg along with their 27-year-old mother who also tested positive. Their condition was described as not worrying.
Salomon says French travellers should avoid journeys abroad outside the European Union unless necessary. He pointed out the death rate worldwide is 3.4% of confirmed cases.Salomon says French travellers should avoid journeys abroad outside the European Union unless necessary. He pointed out the death rate worldwide is 3.4% of confirmed cases.
The Manga and Sci-Fi Show salon planned for next week, which was to have featured giant karaoke and K-pop concerts have been cancelled.The Manga and Sci-Fi Show salon planned for next week, which was to have featured giant karaoke and K-pop concerts have been cancelled.
Several schools and creches have been closed in the Morbihan in Brittany after a cluster of suspected coronavirus cases. This was announced shortly before midnight on Sunday.Several schools and creches have been closed in the Morbihan in Brittany after a cluster of suspected coronavirus cases. This was announced shortly before midnight on Sunday.
Most schools remain open, but students who travelled to areas considered risky, including China and northern Italy, have been asked to self-quarantine for two weeks.Most schools remain open, but students who travelled to areas considered risky, including China and northern Italy, have been asked to self-quarantine for two weeks.
The Louvre will remain closed. The museum’s staff have exercised their “right to withdraw” (their services). Apparently they called a meeting with management after concerns about the number of tourists, reportedly from Asia, entering the museum wearing masks.The Louvre will remain closed. The museum’s staff have exercised their “right to withdraw” (their services). Apparently they called a meeting with management after concerns about the number of tourists, reportedly from Asia, entering the museum wearing masks.
The European commission said there had been 2,100 people infected so far by Coronavirus, including 38 fatalities in 18 member states, as it raised its risk of contraction from low to moderate up to moderate to high, Daniel Boffey reports.The European commission said there had been 2,100 people infected so far by Coronavirus, including 38 fatalities in 18 member states, as it raised its risk of contraction from low to moderate up to moderate to high, Daniel Boffey reports.
Nearly 300 million people have gone back to work in China since the Lunar New Year break as more companies restart business and coronavirus travel restrictions ease, although many small firms are still struggling to find enough workers to run plants, Reuters reports.Nearly 300 million people have gone back to work in China since the Lunar New Year break as more companies restart business and coronavirus travel restrictions ease, although many small firms are still struggling to find enough workers to run plants, Reuters reports.
Indications from China are that the country has managed to get a handle on the coronavirus outbreak, with the numbers of new cases continuing to slow in the country, even as they accelerate elsewhere in the world. According to Reuters:Indications from China are that the country has managed to get a handle on the coronavirus outbreak, with the numbers of new cases continuing to slow in the country, even as they accelerate elsewhere in the world. According to Reuters: